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That everyone who thirsteth for the truth may obtain it, these publications are, as a Christian service, provided without charge. They levy but one exaction: the soul's obligation to itself to prove all things and hold fast to that which is good. The only strings attached to this free proffer are the golden strands of Eden and the crimson cords of Calvary - the ties that bind.

[Publisher's note: The Branch letters were published and sent to the field between 1976 and 1983. Besides containing additional light on the Present Truth, they also provide a historical overview of some of the things which were transpiring during a most important period in the history of The Branch.]

February 9, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"...history, logic, and scripture combine their evidences to prove unconditionally that God has
preserved the genealogy of the chosen branch of the human race forward from Adam to Noah (Matt.
1:1-17), and backward from Jesus to Adam (Luke 3:23-38), He must, then, for a consistent reason,
also have preserved the identity of the elect today; And this, we see, is precisely what he has done
in His designating the lineage of the 144,000 as 'of all the tribes of the children of Israel.' Rev. 7:4.
And though we know not what we are, and cannot ever of ourselves tell, the One Who knows all
about us, even to the last hair of each head, knows our precise ancestry... '" – Tract No. 8, p. 10,11.

"The lineage of Jesus goes back to the Gentiles. Through the descendants of Lot, a Gentile, Ruth the
Moabitist, was the mother of Obed, the father of Jesse, the father of David, the father of Jesus, who
became a Saviour to the Gentiles. He is also the Saviour of the Jews, through Boaz, Obed's father.
Lot, the father of the Gentile multitude – a lot, Rev. 7:9….. William Miller stood in the gap, as it
were, with the first angel's message, between the Gentile Sunday and the Jewish, or Bible Sabbath.
Hence, Miller is a type of Obed." – Healing of the Nations, p. 10.

Isn't the Truth beautiful, and aren't you happy for the privilege of supporting it that others may learn
about it too? We are happy that you keep in touch, and thank you for your help!

A letter from Australia states, "Davidians in general have proved a disappointment to me with their
many factions and divisions, and the most obvious fact that the longed hoped for growing of the
stone until it filled the whole earth – the entering into the literal promised land has not taken place.
Why? I don't know, maybe you have some thoughts on these sobering questions...Davidia doesn't
appear to have grown and spread as was anticipated 15 years ago. Maybe someone can shed some
light on my way as to why…. I am very interested in the pamphlet you enclosed on Sunday Laws.
Others have essayed interest, and therefore I am writing to request you send me further copies,
please."

Praise the Lord that the light of The Branch answers these questions and shows that the Kingdom
has sprouted and is growing in the wilderness (Hosea 2:14). "...in the day of the Branch... (when) this
family tree is completed, then it is that the kingdom of peace... sprouts." – Timely Greetings, Rev.
Vol. 1, No. 31, p. 5.

We are putting the finishing touches on a revised publication of the seven letters to the Davidian
Executive Council, and hope to have them published soon and mailed to you.

May you press into the kingdom and be healed, is our earnest and sincere prayer.

Sincerely yours to "sigh and cry,"

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

February 14, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"Because the bone of contention among the angry nations of today is the WORLD'S MARKETS, and
because the churches are threatened by the totalitarian governments, and thus urged to press together
to preserve Christianity, the fact is thereby evidenced that the time is nigh for the arrival of the
predicted world-wide religious-political-commercial empire, the supposed remedy for the world's
ills." – The World Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, p. 53.

There are a number of seemingly well-documented sources today who are bringing to light the vast
power of the Rockefeller family (who are manipulating oil and gas "shortages") and its battle with
the powerful European Rothchilds over the world's economic market and resulting world control!

How thankful we are that the Lord has sent His people light that we may understand what is now
happening to the world and what God is going to do to save His people that they may in turn gather
in the Gentiles to the Kingdom!

The dream of the ages, the restoration of the Promised Land and Jerusalem, is about to be realized!

At this late hour, let us not be found worshipping at the idolatrous shrines of pleasure which, though
not made of stone, wood, or gold and silver, are idols of a different kind which even the Gentiles of
today label as spewing forth filth unfit for the mind.

We are pleased with the response of Branch believers since the charts were announced as available.
May the truths therein be your food and entertainment that you may inherit the kingdom!

It is easy for us to see that with the extreme change in weather conditions, and the manipulating of
energy to bring about world government, along with the silent yet growing desire for Sunday
holiness, it is time to return to the land of our father Abraham.

It is our prayer that as you live for Him from day to day, choosing the good and refusing the evil,
(which is only possible as you "eat" the "butter" and "honey,"), you will be ready to move when the
Lord gives the call.

Day of Atonement is September 22; Blowing of Trumpets, September 13; Feast of Tabernacles,
September 27 - October 4. We do not know the dates for new moons of November and December
as yet.

Sincerely yours to sell all and buy the field,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

March 7, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"Satan will arouse indignation against the minority who refuse to accept popular customs and
traditions (such as Sundaykeeping, Christmas, Easter, etc.). Men of position and reputation will join
with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education,
will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and churchmembers will
conspire against them (Sabbathkeepers). With voice and pen (see magazine of The Lord's Day
Alliance, "Sunday"), by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith. By false
representations and angry appeals, men will STIR UP THE PASSIONS OF THE PEOPLE. Not
having a 'Thus saith the Scriptures' to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath ("There is no
statement in the New Testament by Jesus authorizing a change from the old Jewish Sabbath to the
observance of the Lord's Day as the Christian's Sabbath, nor is there any such statement by the
apostles." – Dr. Wesberry, Director, Lord's Day Alliance), they will resort to oppressive enactments
to supply the lack. TO SECURE POPULARITY AND PATRONAGE, LEGISLATORS WILL
YIELD TO THE DEMAND FOR SUNDAY LAWS.... And we are not left in doubt as to the issue.
To-day, as in the days of Esther and Mordecai, the Lord will vindicate His truth and His people."-Prophets & Kings, pp. 605,606.

Although President Carter stated that he has a "deep respect... for separation of church and state as
set forth in the First Amendment" and that he would be a "strong defender of the First Amendment
and interpret it very strictly," he also stated that he has "no objection to referenda among the people
to decide when to close such sales (of alcohol) and when not to." – The Christian Index, October 14,
1976. In other words, if the people demand Sunday laws, the legislators and the President "to secure
popular patronage" "will yield to the demand for Sunday laws" through a "referenda" where the
people decide and the legislators comply. A subtle arrangement, indeed!!

Thursday evening we enjoyed the play of Esther presented by the young people here, and Sabbath,
the second day of the feast, Shushan Purim, we continued the Festival of Deliverance with special
Sabbath services and feasting. Guests from Waco were present both days. One young high school
senior showed a very deep interest in the message, having been told by his neighbor in Waco that
we have a prophet out here and that we are Seventh-day Adventist Jews (the neighbor is an Adventist
whose parents were Davidians!). The young man is going to study the message in earnest, he said.

We are greatly encouraged by the progress of the Truth there in New York!

Praise the Lord for the promised glories of the soon-coming Kingdom, and thank you for your
support of the agencies which God has ordained to bring the Kingdom into being!

Sincerely yours to feed upon the leaves of The Branch,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

April 12, 1977

Dear Kingdom-bound Saint:

"In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing,
I can say, PRAISE GOD! As I see what God has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with
confidence in Christ (The Branch) as leader. We have nothing to fear for the future except as we
shall forget the way (through a living prophet) the Lord has led us." – Testimonies to Ministers, p.
31.

The recent Passover Season is the most eventful that we have experienced at New Mt. Carmel
Center, and has brought us to the second step of our work in Israel.

"And His feet shall stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives... And ye shall flee to the valley of
the mountains..." Zech. 14:3,4,5.

Ben L Roden and George left for Israel March 29, and observed the Passover on the Mount of Olives
– and were greeted warmly on every hand, praise the Lord! The centuries-old prophecy is now in the
process of being fulfilled; and we can see that the return of the ten tribes is nigh at hand and the
obstacles will be cleared away.

Thank the Lord that a goodly number of visitors from Arizona, California, and Florida observed the
Passover with us, and although we missed Brother Roden and George, our hearts continually thrilled
with the birth of the second step of our work in Israel.

A consecrated group of 12 young people were baptized by Brother Willliam Worrow in a lovely
running stream in Cameron Park–our first baptism at New Mt. Carmel Center.

Daily worship services were held at 9 and 3, with the young people taking the afternoon meetings,
which we all enjoyed very much. We praise the Lord for the rich, delicious food the Lord has
provided for us in the Five Angels Messages, and which we greatly enjoyed during the Passover
Season.

So you see that the past two weeks have been very eventful for God's people, and now we are
preparing for New Mt. Carmel's first wedding this coming Thursday evening. Bobby Kendrick and
Lois Ann Jones will be united in wedlock by Brother William Worrow.

Please remember Brother Roden and George continually in your daily prayers! Please remember us,
too, as we carry on the work at New Mt. Carmel Center to the best of our ability. All are rallying to
the work here!

It is very important that you do not write Brother Roden in Israel, at the present time, so as not to
hinder in any way the very delicate progress of the work there. Please send correspondence and tithes
to The Branch Organic Agricultural Assn., Rt. 7, Box 471-B, Waco, Texas, 76705, NOT to "The
Branch," New Mt. Carmel Center, or Ben Roden, as each of these three names are also the names
of other persons and organizations in Waco and they sometimes receive our mail, and we theirs.
Thank you very much!

Sincerely yours in Praise to The Branch,

< signed Lois I. Roden >

(Mrs.) Lois I. Roden

LIR:pdj

enc.

May 2,1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"The observance of temperance and regularity in all things has a wonderful power. It will do more
than circumstances or natural endowments in promoting that sweetness and serenity of disposition
which count so much in smoothing life's pathway. At the same time the power of self-control thus
acquired will be found one of the most valuable of equipments for grappling successfully with the
stern duties and realities that await every human being." – Education, p. 206.

In our age of rapid pace so fraught with duties and responsibilities and with our privileged calling
to sigh (for our sins) and cry (give the message) for The Branch, it becomes a necessity to utilize
temperance and regularity to a greater degree, perhaps, than we have been accustomed to that we
may be more productive for the Lord as well as prepared to weather the force of the developing
storm of the beast against the Lamb.

We here at New Mt. Carmel Center are, with the help of The Branch, endeavoring to press together
in unity of purpose and action, and in brotherhood carry on the increasingly important work as we
have entered the second stage of the restoration. We greatly appreciate your support so necessary to
meet the increasing demands upon the treasury as a result of our expanded work in Israel.

If you will recall, Elder H.M.S. Richards wrote an article for the Review years ago (we quoted from
it in our tract "The Star and The Trumpet") in which he set forth Isaiah 2 and his dream of
broadcasting the Third Angel's Message from the Mount of Olives. Elder Richards did not realize
his dream because the 1967 war restored the Mount of Olives to the Jews. Just a few days ago,
however, Elder Richards returned to Israel to investigate possibilities for broadcasting, and while
there he met with Brother Roden in a cordial and important meeting. Please pray for Elder Richards
that the Lord will I find in him the willingness to progress the Truth.

Last Sabbath we were happy to have a young Adventist brother from India visit with us. He is now
attending Southwestern Union College at Keene, and has been studying and favorable to the message
for several years. He brought some of his friends with him, and we had a good study about the times
of 1888 relating to the development of the Sunday laws in the U.S. and the presentation of the
message of Revelation 18:1 to the Adventists. They seemed to have an open mind, and took freely
the literature which we have displayed on a table by the front door of the Administration Bldg.

It is reported that the Texas Conference is considering holding the 1978 campmeeting at Baylor
University here in Waco! And of course, as you know from a previous letter, the General Conference
World Session is planned for Dallas in 1980, not in the summer as is traditional, but just before the
Second Passover!

Letters from Africa stream into the Office and it is not unusual to have requests for many thousands
of Bibles, Great Controversies, camp tracts, etc. The literature which we are able to send is like seed,
one grain of which, like wheat, Sister White says could, with reproduction, cover a whole field!

May The Branch find in you a willing and courageous heart that He may prepare you for the
Kingdom!

Sincerely yours to prepare for Israel,

< signed Lois I. Roden >

(Mrs.) Lois I. Roden

LIR:pdj:enc.

Dear Sister_______ :

"...but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth
serve... I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my
temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; that ye may
eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel." Luke
22:26-30. 'Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution,
or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?" Romans 8:35.

"Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness,
seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger." Zeph.2:3.

"This is the seventh round..." – The Daily, p. 8. It has been 20 years since the message of The Branch
announced the beginning of the Judgment for the Living for Laodicea. Jacob started home after his
20 years of exile. When Abraham was 75 he left for Padan-aram for Canaan. After seven years of
rule in Hebron since his coronation at Pentecost, David moved to Jerusalem. All these providential
coincidences and many more point to the time of great consequences in the setting up of Christ's
promised Kingdom (Matt. 6:10).

Thank you for your faithful multi-faceted support of The Branch message and messenger!

Our Spanish work is blessed with the help of a young man from Cuba via Miami who is presently
at New Mt. Carmel Center translating tracts into Spanish.

We are praising the Lord for the success of those who have presented the official request for feast
day time off to their employers.

It is our most earnest prayer that in 1977 you will continue on in the way of righteousness, seeking
meekness, and letting nothing separate you from the love of Christ.

Sincerely yours to put God's business first,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

May 30, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"Perils now threaten the people of God; and what will they do? Can we not assist in lifting the
standard, and in calling to the front those who have a regard for their religious rights and privileges?
God calls us to awake; for the end is near. The prophecies that show us the closing scenes of earth's
history, are fast fulfilling. The time is fast approaching when we shall be made to feel the hand of
oppression, because we demand our religious rights. Shall we then dishonor God by keeping silent,
when his holy commandments are being trampled under foot?" – Review & Herald, Dec. 11, 1888.

We are not keeping silent! A new campmeeting tract goes on the printing presses this week, Lord
willing! It is entitled "Constantine to Carter" and suggests a positive role for Carter in relationship
to Sabbathkeepers which should encourage you.

At home again after our trip to Israel, we are working on "The Daily, Part 2," also, our new letter to
the Jews (which all will want to read!), as well as finishing the new Sabbath School Lessons, and
another new camp tract about Israel.

Thank you for your faithful prayers and your fine cooperation with the Office at New Mt. Carmel
while George and I were in Israel. We had two very cordial meetings with Elder H.M.S. Richards
on the Mt. of Olives. We told him we appreciated the material he wrote for the Introduction of "All
Eyes on Israel," and told him we believed that the Seventh-day Adventists are the ten tribes. We gave
him some Scriptures, and he commented that it was very interesting.

If you have not had opportunity to read the aforementioned book, the essence of what Elder Richards
wrote is that Adventists should reconsider their position on the return of the Jews to Israel and open
their minds to what the Scriptures say regardless of former opinions. This, needless to say, is
excellent advice, and those who take it will find themselves on the road to The Branch Kingdom.

We have the new campmeeting schedule for 1977. Whatever you can do to assist in the distribution
of the special tracts for 1977 will be greatly appreciated. Please write in telling us the campmeeting
you can cover in your area, if any.

The Texas Conference campmeeting format took on a new look in 1976 and will continue on in the
same way. Their plan is to have the campmeetings as an evangelistic thrust in the cities, which is
very good. Last year the campmeeting was in Ft. Worth, and this year it is in Dallas. The theme will
be "health" and so we are preparing a special tract for them on the subject showing what true health
reform is. The president of the conference is a very gracious Christian gentleman, whom we know
personally, and with whom we have a very good relationship.

May The Branch be your daily Guide as you seek His Kingdom and His Righteousness first, trusting
in Him for your needs!

Sincerely yours to get ready for Israel,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj:enc.

June 9,1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"The disciples of Christ were looking for the immediate coming of the kingdom of His glory; but in
giving them this prayer Jesus taught that the kingdom was not then to be established. But this
petition was also an assurance to them. While they were not to behold the coming of the kingdom
IN THEIR DAY, the FACT THAT JESUS BADE THEM PRAY FOR IT, is evidence THAT IN
GOD'S OWN TIME IT WILL SURELY COME." – Mount of Blessing, p. 159.

"The interests of His kingdom are our interests, and we are to work for its upbuilding." – Ibid.

May God's richest blessings, even life without death and a throne in His Kingdom, be yours as you
make "His kingdom" your "interest" and "work for its upbuilding."

Thank you for your continued prayers and help in upbuilding the Kingdom!

Campmeeting season is in full-swing now, and we have already sent our literature evangelists from
New Mt. Carmel Center to the Kansas, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Mississippi
campmeetings. Some excellent contacts were made, praise the Lord, and literature was widely
distributed at all the meetings!

At the Iowa campmeeting one of our literature evangelists overheard two women talking about the
"Constantine to Carter" tract – one lady told another how interesting the tract was, and the lady said
they must have gone to different meetings because she didn't get a tract like that!

At the South Dakota campmeeting, a minister told one of our workers that he didn't care what Jesus
would have done, they had their rules that we could not distribute literature and that was that (the
literature had already been distributed!).

At the Kansas campmeeting a brother remarked how our workers had traveled all the way to Kansas
from Texas to distribute literature, and he asked how we knew the campmeeting was being held.
When told that it was published in an Adventist paper, he asked how we got the paper, and when told
that it is sent to us he couldn't hardly believe it! Well, as you may know, we subscribe to the Review
& Herald in which the campmeeting dates are published every year.

We are publishing a new "Kingdom" tract entitled "DELIVERANCE IN MOUNT ZION AND IN
JERUSALEM... AND IN THE REMNANT WHOM THE LORD SHALL CALL" Joel 2:32. One
of the first copies published is enclosed for you.

The Director of "The Lord's Day Alliance," wrote a letter to President Carter, March 21, 1977,
calling upon the President and Congress to "enact legislation 'to protect one day in seven as a day
of rest and renewal... to conserve energy.... for the good of the beloved nation.... We urge both local
and federal leaders across the nation to make a major new thrust to preserve a common day of rest..."

The battle lines are being drawn! Let us continue to pray that the President will be like king
Ahasuerus, not like Constantine!

Sincerely yours in The Branch,

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

(please turn over)

Page 2

Since a woman's hair, if it is not short, is her glory and covering, she need not wear a head scarf. But
if her hair is short (1 Cor. 11:15) she needs a covering. We are in the Branch dispensation when
women along with men are to be priests and therefore without headcoverings.

July 1, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"I have been shown how reading matter on present truth is sometimes treated by many people... A
person receives a tract or paper. He reads a little in it, finds something that does not agree with his
former views, and throws it aside. But the few words he did read are not forgotten. Unwelcome
though they are, they remain in the mind until an interest is awakened to read further on the subject.
Again the paper is taken up; again the reader finds something in it that is opposed to his long-cherished opinions and customs, and he angrily flings it aside. But the rejected messenger says
nothing to increase his opposition or arouse his combativeness, and when the force of his anger dies
away, and the paper is again brought out, it tells the same simple, straightforward story, and he finds
in it precious gems. Angels of God are near to impress the unspoken word upon his heart; and,
although loath to do so, he at last yields, and light takes possession of his soul. Those who are
unwillingly converted, often prove to be among the most substantial believers; and their experience
teaches them to labor perseveringly for others." – Evangelism, p. 412.

How comforting are these words to those of us who are engaged in the most important literature
evangelism ministry that has ever gone forth in the name of the Lord!

Soon, the results of our labor will be seen! "In visions of the night, representations passed before me
of a great reformatory movement among God's people. Many were praising God. The sick were
healed, and other miracles were wrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested
before the great Day of Pentecost. Hundreds and thousands were seen visiting families and opening
before them the word of God.... On every side doors were thrown open to the proclamation of the
truth." – Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 126.

The Lord's Day Alliance of the United States has just revealed in their April/June 1977 issue of
"Sunday," p. 7, "A Letter to the President of the United States," which states that they passed a
resolution at their Annual Meeting "urging you as President of the United States and members of
Congress to 'avoid the use of Sunday for transacting public business' and to enact legislation 'to
protect one day in seven as a day of rest and renewal for people of the nation.' We urge both local
and federal leaders across the nation to make a MAJOR NEW THRUST to preserve a common day
of rest 'for spiritual and physical renewal' and to 'conserve energy which is so vital to the present and
future welfare of our nation.' "

The hour is late! And with the new Supreme Court decision disallowing Sabbathkeepers their right
to not work on the Sabbath, we can see Jacob's trouble developing rapidly!

Sincerely yours to not let go of the Mighty Angel,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

July 15, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"Brethren, when you take time to cultivate your garden, thus gaining the exercise you need to keep
the system in good working order, you are just as much doing the work of God as in holding
meetings." – Counsels on Health, p. 564.

"They (housewives) should go out and exercise every day, even though some things indoors have
to be neglected." – Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 531.

"Morning exercise in walking in the free, invigorating air of heaven, or cultivating flowers, small
fruits, and vegetables, is necessary to a healthful circulation of the blood." – My Life Today, p. 136.

"The health cannot be preserved unless some portion of each day is given to muscular exertion in
the open air." – Child Guidance, p. 342.

"More people die for want of exercise than through overfatigue; very many more rust out than wear
out." – Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 526.

Here at New Mt. Carmel Center, even though we have a heavy program of writing, publishing, and
correspondence, we work in our gardens from 6-8 a.m. This not only provides us with the needed
exercise, but provides our tables with nice tomatoes, greens, okra, squash, sweet potatoes, and
cantaloupes. Then, too, we are becoming acclimated to gardening in the early morning hours in
preparation for our life in Israel as agriculturalists.

We appreciate your faithful efforts in the distribution of literature, whether it be at the campmeetings
if you are able, or whether it be on a one-to-one basis. God promises that for each seed or tract sown,
"it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please and it shall prosper in
the thing whereto I sent it." – Isa. 55:11.

Encouraging reports are being received from our campmeeting literature evangelists, praise The
Branch! The literature is reaching the people, it would appear, with less opposition than we are
accustomed to receiving. For example, at a certain campmeeting for years either the police were
called or the brethren ordered us off the property. This year not a word was said! We found out later
that last year some independent Adventists had reported the campmeeting brethren to the local
authorities for obstructing the peaceful distribution of literature and the authorities had told the
Adventists to allow the literature to be given out! As a result of the campmeeting work already done,
we have received numerous requests from areas long silent.

We are making a file of information on the recent Supreme Court decision disallowing
Sabbathkeepers their right to not work on the Sabbath. Should you find articles of publication
regarding this, we would greatly appreciate having them for our file. Thank you very much!

May The Branch bless you and your gardening program as you prepare for Israel!

Sincerely yours to obey Present Truth,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

Please turn over

Page 2

P.S. In answer to your inquiry, sleeves should be almost to the elbow, dress length should be at least
two inches below the lower part of the knee when either standing or sitting, and sandals may be worn
without stockings or sandal-like shoes may be worn with stockings for dress.

August 4, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"The two-wave loaves, or first-fruits, in our day, are the 144,000 of Rev. 7:1-8; 14:1-5; Inspiration
calls them first-fruits (Rev. 14:4). Those who sound the warning to wake up the sleeping virgins
(Matt. 25:5), or first-fruits, are the first of the first-fruits, or wavesheaf – a vanguard as it were. If you
will please note in Rev. 14:4 the 144,000 are called virgins, and Jesus said that all the virgins were
asleep, but a cry was made at midnight to wake up the dozing Virgins. Inspiration never sleeps and
when the One on the cloud thrust in His sickle, the virgins were awakened by the noise of the cry,
'Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.' Matt. 25:6.... At this time, it is the message
for the church to prepare her for the loud cry... Isaiah 6:13 has much encouragement for the gospel
prophet, 'But yet in it shall be a tenth, and it shall return… ' …The 144,000 wheat (wave loaves)...
A tenth will stand on Mt. Zion to give the loud cry." – Heaven's Flying Saucer, pp. 5,6.

How privileged we are to give the "cry" "to wake up the dozing virgins"! The promise of Isaiah that
a "tenth," the 144,000, will return should encourage us to continue in our "crying" to the brethren.

For your encouragement here are some excerpts from some of the letters being received as a result
of the campmeeting literature ministry – "I would like to have 3 copies each of Constantine to Carter,
The Energy Crisis, The 'Daily' Part 1. Who are 'The Branch'?? We are Seventh-day Adventists.
Whoever you are these pamphlets look good." – Kansas. "At our Adventist Campmeeting, I did
obtain two of the tracts given out...will pay for six more... And in turn will be glad to extend a
helping hand to your group" – South Dakota. "I have just finished reading Constantine to Carter and
The 'Daily' Part 1 which we found on the campgrounds... Please send more detailed information."
– Iowa. "Please send me some tracts and other information as may be helpful in my search for truth."
– Kentucky. "Would it be possible for me to receive your pamphlet titled 'Constantine to Carter'?...
My daughter was telling me about the pamphlet and I would love to receive one to read if I could
get one." – Colorado. "...you advise Seventh-day Adventists to move to Israel as soon as possible...
May I request more information as to the possibility of my relocating in Israel." – California. "I am
enclosing a check... for at least one copy of this terrific writing 'We're Fed Up – Catholics Crucifying
Nixon.' Events have certainly been prophetic. Do you have any other items that would be helpful
along this line?" – Oregon. "I would like more information on the brochures 'Constantine to Carter'
also 'Deliverance.' Thanks a lot." – New Mexico. "Please send me more information about Sunday
laws." – Ohio. "I have read your tract of 'Constantine to Carter' and 'Deliverance." I would like more
detailed information." – Maryland.

We are happy to share with you the Feast Days for 1977-78. We are unable to obtain the Jewish
Calendars at the present time to send each of you one as we have in years past. If you have a Jewish
synagogue in your area, you will probably find they are happy to give you a calendar.

New Moon, August 15; Blowing of the Trumpets (New Year), September 13; Day of Atonement,
September 22; Feast of Tabernacles, September 27 - October 4; New Moons: October 13, November
11, December 11, (1978) January 9, February 8, March 10, Purim, March 23; New Moon, April 8;
Passover, April 22-28; New Moon, May 8, June 6; Pentecost, June 11; New Moons, July 6, August
4, September 3.

Sincerely yours to keep the Feasts,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

Please turn over

September 5, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"At the time that Jerusalem, that now is (1946) falls (1948), the Lord's feet shall stand upon the
Mount of Olives (1977) and there make a very great valley, THAT IS, remove the obstacles and
hindrances, and thus prepare the land for the returning of His people.... Having thus opened the way
for the re-establishment of the house of Judah, His people, who before hand have been informed of
it through present Truth (The Branch), will flee to the valley, to where the Lord's feet stand." –
Timely Greetings, Vol. 1 (Revised), No. 19, pp. 4,5.

Did you know-that the "valley" has been made and the removal of the "obstacles and hindrances"
has begun? For the first time since Israel became a nation in 1948, the Labor Party is not in power!
The Religious Party and Prime Minister Begin are in power, as you know, much to the surprise of
the majority. (One journalist quipped, "Begin with Begin," which is quite true!). This happened right
after the "Lord's feet" stood on the Mount of Olives! In other words, in the light of what has taken
place since Begin took office, we can see that the Mount of Olives has become a "valley" and the
"obstacles and hindrances" are being removed. Has not Begin opened up the West Bank (this means
the west side of the Jordan River) for settlement to the Jews? The Scripture says that "the Mount of
Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the EAST..." The West Bank east of Jerusalem and
Mount of Olives! So we see plainly that the way is being opened up for the people of God to "flee
to the valley." Not only does the cleaving go toward the "east" but also toward the "west" and "half
of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south" – in other words, the
land of Israel, east and west, north and south, is being opened up to God's people to flee to!

An interesting article appeared in "The Cross and The Flag" publication. "Hans Morganthau, a
political scientist, is the mentor of both Henry Kissinger and James Schlesinger. Speaking at the
Brandeis Institute, Simi Valley, California, he pointed out that despite America's verbal commitment
to Israel, and economic military support, the United States prevented Israel, during each of the four
Arab-Israeli wars, from achieving the total victory vital to her security; that since Arab states still
have not demonstrated by deed an acceptance of Israel's right to exist as a state, the ONLY
EFFECTIVE GUARANTEE FOR A MIDDLE EAST PEACE SETTLEMENT WOULD BE U.S.
MILITARY PRESENCE IN ISRAEL. Then, just as an attack by the Soviet Union against Europe
means an attack against the United States (NATO Alliance), so would an attack against Israel be an
attack against the United States. This is the subconscious thinking the Jews hope to develop into
reality." – May, 1977 issue, page 17.

Another item of interest: "President Carter's appointment last week of a personal representative to
the Vatican has infuriated the President's fellow Baptists and has touched off a flurry of interreligious
strife.... they fear it signals the upgrading of U.S. representation at the Vatican from its present
informal status to full diplomatic recognition of the headquarters of a religion. Their fears are fueled
by the quiet passage last month of an amendment to the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for
fiscal 1978. The amendment, introduced by Sen. Richard Stone, D-Fla., repeals a 110-year old law,
enacted in an era of anti-Catholicism here, forbidding expenditure of funds 'for the support of an
American legation' at the Vatican. Stone, who is Jewish, said he offered the amendment so that if
'some President in the future' wanted to upgrade representation it could be done.... Carter's choice,
Miami attorney David Walters... is the first Roman Catholic to be named to the unsalaried post." –
The Denver Post Religious News Weekly, July 15, 1977, p. 3BB.

As the Blowing of the Trumpets for the New Year, the Day of Atonement, and Feast of Tabernacles
approach, let us prepare to follow the Lord in faith as He enters the Most Holy Place, that we may
stand in the coming year as God's providence unfolds in the "valley" of the mountains.

Sincerely yours to prepare to "flee,"

<signed Ben L. Roden>

The Branch – Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

Enc.

September 30, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"The Lord calls upon all his people to improve the ability he has given them. The mental powers
should be developed to the utmost; they should be strengthened and ennobled by dwelling upon
spiritual truths. If the mind is allowed to run almost entirely upon trifling things and the common
business of every-day life, it will, in accordance with one of its unvarying laws, become weak and
frivolous, and deficient in spiritual power.

"Times that will try men's souls are just before us; and those who are weak in the faith will not stand
the test of those days of peril. The great truths of revelation are to be carefully studied; for we shall
all want an intelligent knowledge of the word of God. By Bible study and daily communion with
Jesus, we shall gain clear, well-defined views of individual responsibility, and strength to stand in
the day of trial and temptation. He whose life is united to Christ by hidden links will be kept by the
power of God through faith unto salvation.

"More thought should be given to the things of God, and less to temporal matters. The world-loving
professor, if he will exercise his mind in that direction, may become as familiar with the word of
God as he now is with worldly business. 'Search the Scriptures,' said Christ; 'for in them ye think ye
have eternal life; and they are they which testify of me.' The Christian is required to be diligent in
searching the Scriptures, to read over and over again the truths in God's word. Willful ignorance on
this subject endangers the Christian life and character. It blinds the understanding and corrupts the
noblest powers. It is this that brings confusion into our lives. Our people need to understand the
oracles of God; they need to have a systematic knowledge of the principles of revealed truth, which
will fit them for what is coming upon the earth, and prevent them from being carried about by every
wind of doctrine. – Testimonies, Vol. 5, pp. 272,273.

As we journey toward the Kingdom in this new year, it is our prayer that the foregoing counsel will
be of special help and guidance to you and yours who are seeking first the Kingdom of God and His
righteousness! We here at New Mt. Carmel Center have rededicated our lives to the furtherance of
His work, and have pledged to put His work first and foremost to the best of our ability!

You will be pleased to know that during this Feast of Tabernacles season we have mailed you the
new Sabbath School Lessons, which are entitled, "The Kingdom Lost and The Kingdom Restored."

Items of significant interest in the "almost imperceptible movement that is stealthily undermining
and destroying the freedom of conscience" (Undercurrent, Third Quarter 1977): "Carl Mclntire, U.S.
Bible Presbyterian radio preacher, says the new Uniting Church in Australia, the World Council of
Churches and the Pope aim at a 'super world church.' 'The only argument with Rome is whether 'We
join you or you join us. '" – RNS, 7-1-77. "Roman Catholic Cardinal Suenens, leading figure in the
charismatic movement, visited WCC headquarters where he had a long discussion on the
significance of charismatic renewal for the ecumenical movement. He sees it helping to heal
divisions rather than divide the churches, bringing them closer together." – One World, June 1977.
"Former World Methodist Council President Bishop Fred Corson said, 'We Protestants need you
Roman Catholics. We were in danger of losing our soul, and you are helping us to get it back. You're
helping to stabilize us." – RNS, 6-24-77. "Christian unity is in the local church.... Christians want
to be together and for that we need bishops and they need the centralized government in Rome." –
RNS, 6-6-77.

Sincerely yours for a happy Feast of Tabernacles season,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

The Branch – Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

Enc.

October 12, 1977

Elder _____________ , President

General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

6840 Eastern Avenue, N.W.

Takoma Park, Washington 12, D.C.

Dear Elder

In keeping with the conversation you and my son, George Roden, had at the Escondido campmeeting
September 24, 1977 in which you requested us to state our position in writing, I would say:

We believe that since you have called for and worked for the revival and reformation that Sister
White referred to in Review and Herald, February 25, 1902 (quoted in Christ Our Righteousness,
pp. 120-123), that as President of the General Conference you have contributed to the well-being of
the Adventist people more than any other President of the General Conference in the history of the
people since Elder James White, whom Sister White says in some respects was like Moses
(Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 85).

In the year 1970 you called for Adventists to have Pentecost at Atlantic City and to make the
Convention a Pentecost. Sister White says in Selected Messages, Book One, p. 188, the outpouring
of the Holy Spirit cannot be predicted, likewise the second coming of Christ. You did not predict the
Holy Spirit would be poured out on June 12, 1977, as I understand, but you did call for a Pentecost
which was in keeping with the revealed will of God. Pentecost comes each year about fifty days after
Passover. This can be calculated every year by anyone familiar with Scripture. Those at the
Convention prayed with the assemblage of 2,000 ministers for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit The
Holy Spirit was not poured out on the Convention as was accomplished on Mt. Zion in Jerusalem,
31 A.D., where the disciples received the power of miracles and tongues to give the message that
Jesus taught them for three and one-half years. But the Lord did not forsake His people at
Convention in Atlantic City, because as represented by the guests – the ten virgins – at the marriage
the Advent people went in by faith to the marriage of the Lamb and the marriage between Jesus and
His bride took place on that day, Pentecost, June 14, 1970.

In 1844 the Advent people kept the day of Atonement October 22, 1844 by faith, as Jesus went into
the Most Holy apartment of the Sanctuary in heaven, but did not fully understand the event that took
place. So, likewise, in 1970, June 12 or 14, the Adventist people and the denomination went into the
Marriage of the Lamb by faith while Jesus was still in he Sanctuary (Great Controversy, p. 427). As
guests, the Adventist denomination could not be the Bride (Ibid.), but by faith they were present at
the marriage. This event was typified by the Pentecost which took place in Mt. Sinai when Jehovah
(Ex. 6:1-3) married the church that was delivered from Egyptian bondage by the Lord, in the cloud
by day and fire by night, under the visible leadership of Moses. At Mt. Sinai God set up a theocracy
with Moses as vice-gerent (Patriarchs & Prophets, p. 303). Joshua and David were also vice-gerents
(Ibid., pp. 603,702).

"The close and sacred relation of God to his people is represented under the figure of marriage.
"Patriarchs & Prophets, p. 306.

Page 2

"Soon after encampment at Sinai (on the day of Pentecost) .... Israel was now to be taken into a close
and peculiar relation (marriage) to the Most High – to be incorporated as a church and a nation under
the government (laws) of God." – Ibid., p. 303.

The reason the Holy Spirit was not poured out upon Adventists in 1970 is the very same reason it
was not poured out upon the people at Mt. Sinai. On Mt. Zion in Jerusalem, the disciples received
it. You will note that the fire (Holy Spirit) came down upon Mt. Sinai in the wilderness and the
people were not allowed to touch the mount (Ex. 19:21).

Therefore, the mount was holy but the people were not, as was exemplified by their worship of the
golden calf. But things were different in Jerusalem where the fire came down upon the head of the
disciples signifying that the. disciples were holy but not Mt. Zion. The nation was not holy because
of their rejection as a nation – the leadership, not as individuals, of their Redeemer.

The Advent people in 1970 were comingled with wheat and tares and God could not pour out His
Holy Spirit upon an impure people like He did upon the disciples on the day of Pentecost. The
disciples had been purged of tares when Judas separated himself from the church and left the church
clean and prepared for the outpouring of the Spirit.

As a theocracy was set up under Moses in the wilderness at Mt. Sinai (Patriarchs & Prophets, p.
303), so at the marriage of God's Son (Great Controversy, p. 427) in 1970 a theocracy was set up at
New Mt. Carmel Center, Waco, Texas, and Adventism was present by faith at the marriage. There
is a special reason that the Lord set up the theocracy at New Mt. Carmel Center because prophecy
predicted that it would be so. "Therefore, behold, I will allure her (church) and bring her into the
wilderness (Gentile lands) and speak comfortably to her. And I will give her (church) her vineyards
(theocratic Kingdom) from thence (that place), and the valley of Achor for a door of hope: and she
(church) shall sing there, as in the days of her youth, and as in the day when she (church) came up
out of the land of Egypt." Hosea 2:14-16.

The valley of Achor – the place in the wilderness – is is the door to the Kingdom.

You will remember that the valley of Achor was in the promised land in the days of Joshua and was
a place of defeat and disappointment to Israel. But today the valley of Achor is in the wilderness
(Gentile lands) where the church is after having fled into the wilderness (Rev. 12:6) out of
Jerusalem. This valley of Achor would also be a place of defeat and disappointment to modern Israel
as it was to Joshua and Israel anciently. But the Lord predicts that instead of remaining a disgrace
to Israel it would be a DOOR OF HOPE. Just such an incident happened at New Mt. Carmel Center
March 11, 1962 when Florence Houteff, remarried and now known as Florence Eakin (Achan), stole
the tithes from the Davidian Seventh-day Adventist Association along with seventy-two followers
and fled to California and other states to appropriate the stolen tithes to their personal use in business
and at home. This was a great disgrace to the Adventist name in Waco, Texas and before
Sundaykeeping Christians. But the prophecy predicts that, although this disgrace would take place,
the church would sing there (that place in the wilderness) as she sang in the day she came out of
Egypt. That is, there God would set up His Son's theocracy like as He – Jehovah, had set up His
theocracy at Mt. Sinai. "...But as for ourselves, we are strictly denominational; we are sacredly
denominated by God, and are under His theocracy ...." Testimonies, Vol. 7, p. 109. "And it shall be
at that day saith the Lord, that thou shalt call me Ishi (husband-my man); and shalt call me no more
Baali (Lord)." Hosea 2:16.

This prediction declares that at this place – the valley of Achor – there would be a marriage and a
change of name. A marriage is the time a bride changes her name to that of her husband. They shall
sing as in the day they came up out of Egypt – have a theocratic government, and the marriage would
take place at that time. This is just what happened in June 1970 at New Mt. Carmel Center, Waco,
Texas.

The marriage is the coronation of God's vice-gerent as foretold by John the Revelator, as was the
Pentecost, the coronation and inauguration of Jesus in the church – mediatorial Kingdom in Heaven
(Christ's Object

Page 3

Lessons, p. 120). "To him that overcometh will I grant to set with me in MY THRONE, EVEN as
I (Jesus) also overcame, and am set down with my Father in His throne." Rev. 3:12.

Jesus, you see, has a throne and it is the throne of David, His earthly parentage, and an overcomer,
someone God chooses, is to sit there with Him on earth. Of course, Jesus would not be visible at the
time and it is not the second coming of Christ visibly in the clouds, at which time He does not touch
the earth.

This is His coming in the Investigative Judgment of the Living (Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 190). This
is the time Jesus sits on the throne of His glory (Mount of Blessings, p. 159).

You, Elder Pierson, are a most privileged man to have been given the opportunity to announce
Pentecost in 1970 to Adventism and guide the church into the marriage of the King's Son (Great
Controversy, p. 427).

The theocracy set up in 1970 is the reason that the Sunday law – the image of the beast was formed
as a counterfeit, in 1975 when President Ford signed HR 7014 and S 622 into Public Law 94-163.
The energy bill, a national law, with a Sunday rider, Section 202, authorizes the President to use the
emergency powers provided in this law to enforce a Sunday law and shut down business and traffic
any time he deems it necessary to save on gasoline.

The revival and reformation that you seek in the church is the revival of the Living Spirit of
Prophecy (Early Writings, pp. 138,228; Testimonies, Vol. 1, p. 216; Ibid., Vol. 3, pp. 260,360,361;
Ibid., Vol. 6, p. 406; Testimonies to Ministers, p. 300; Great Controversy, p. 383, 1889 Edition;
Christ Our Righteousness, p. 121), and the reformation Sister White says is re-organization (Ibid.).
That means an organization after the order of Israel's government at Mt. Sinai (Patriarchs &
Prophets, p. 303) where her government was incorporated under the laws of God as a church and a
nation – a theocracy with a church-state king, a vice-gerent as the head of the government. This
would mean the General Conference would have to dissolve under the laws of the United States
Government, which calls for elected officials, as head of the church, and put in its place a head
appointed by God with the Spirit of Prophecy. This, Elder Pierson, is what is meant by
reorganization and what Sister White tried to implement in 1900 at the time she took the elected
president out of office. In 1902 the General Conference, through a minority quorum, brought back
the elected president. Testimonies to Ministers, p. 342 says "It is not wise to CHOOSE one man as
president of the General Conference." That it is not the people's right to choose the President but it
is God's prerogative to choose one man as President of the General Conference.

Revelation 18:1 is to join the Third Angel (Early Writings, p. 277) and Revelation 18:1-4 is a
message and movement (Great Controversy, p. 604). The Revelation 18:1 angel is THE BRANCH
movement and message and is prepared to lead the church – God's ship – through the rocky shoals
she is now entering, the time of trouble. After dissolving the General Conference incorporation, the
church can prepare to give the Loud Cry where our ministers will not have to lose their jobs because
of the decree which goes forth. "And no man might buy or sell ...." Rev. 13:17.

We have plans in the Branch movement now to ensure our ministers and leaders continued
employment in God's work during this time of trouble. We cannot afford to have our ministers out
of a job because the only place they could go for help would be to join the welfare rolls of the U.S.
Government. This would likely take place if the work shuts down and our ministers are not trained
for employment to make a living for their families. This proposition should be put before the
ministers of the church and their wives.

What are we men going to do to save our wives and daughters from the hands of wicked men when
they are put in prison in the time of trouble? There is a way out and God has revealed that plan.
Sister White said that she saw our ministers and their wives studying the book of Zechariah (Review
& Herald, March 4, 1902), and this is where the truth of the Branch (Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 472),
is found.

The seriousness of the hour is growing and we must act quickly to cut off the forces of the enemy
which are set against those who keep God's seventh-day Sabbath.

Page 4

The Branch movement is ready to join with you and the brethren of the General Conference in
bringing about this reformation-reorganization and preparing God's dear people to whet their sword
and go into battle conquering and to conquer with Jesus' New Name (Rev. 3:12).

May the Lord richly bless you and the brethren who bear the mighty responsibility for eternity.

THE BRANCH

Ben Roden

P.S. It would be good if we could meet with you and the brethren during the Fall Council and lay
plans, so that we may prepare the church for her final conflict.

BR:pdj

November 9, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

We are pleased to be able to share an outline of the Truths of the special services held at New Mt.
Carmel Center on October 4, the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles celebration, and on October 6,
the "twentyfourth day of the seventh month."

On October 4, a special service was held based on the account given in Desire of Ages, p.448 (para.
5), and p. 449 (para. 0 and 1)- Brother and Sister Roden carried the flagons of grape juice and water
down the center aisle of the Chapel and poured them first into two basins, then into one basin at the
altar. Special readings were given- from Desire of Ages, pp. 452-454, and Patriarchs & Prophets, p.
411, by Sister Roden, with Brother Roden, Brother Perry Jones, and Brother William Worrow
participating.

On October 6, Brother Roden and Sister Roden read an account of the Feast of Tabernacles and the
Dedication of the Temple in Solomon's day. 2 Chron. 7:1-5,8,9,10.

The Congregation stood and read 2 Chron. 7:12-22.

Brother Roden read Neh. 8:48 and 9:1-3 regarding the twenty-fourth day of the seventh month,
pointing out how the people in Nehemiah's day assembled together with fasting, sack cloth, and earth
upon them, and how the people separated themselves from strangers and confessed their sins, and
read the law for three hours, then confessed their sins for three hours.

Brother Roden then read Neh. 9:5: "Stand up and bless the Lord."

Brother Roden and Congregation stood and read Neh. 9:5-38.

Brother Roden read Neh. 10:1,28,29, which tells how the people in Nehemiah's day "entered into a
curse, and into an oath, to walk in God's law" and "to observe and do all the commandments of the
Lord our Lord, and his judgments and his statutes" and to "not give our daughters unto the people
of the land, nor take their daughters for our sons;" they pledged not to desecrate the Sabbath, and to
support "the service of the house of our God."

An oath to do as the people did in Nehemiah's day was signed by Brother and Sister Roden, Brother
Perry Jones, Brother William Worrow, Brother Clive Doyle, and the members of the Congregation.

During the Feast of Tabernacles visitors from Florida, Keene and Richardson, Texas, and Louisiana
joined in the celebration of the joyous occasion, attending the daily (9 and 3) worship hours and the
evening services.

An exhaustive study of the subject matter, the Feast of Tabernacles, was conducted at the meetings,
and a greater understanding resulted, than at any previous celebration of the Feast!

Please forgive our delay in writing! We have been away from the Office for awhile and have just
returned.

May the Branch our Lord be closer to you as these new rays of light reveal Him more fully!

Sincerely yours to praise the Branch as rays

of light cheer us onward to the Kingdom,

<signed Ben L. Roden and Lois I. Roden>

Bro. & Sis. Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

November 23, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

"Unquestionably the time has come for all church members (Branch believers) to realize that they
are now passing from Christian childhood into Christian maturity, and should, therefore, no longer
try to reach the stature of the full grown by continuing to feed on the food of babes. Hence each one,
even the younger members (the born after the flesh), can now be enabled to recognize their spiritual
parents, so as intelligently to say, 'my Father and my Mother': for to know their God aright through
the Son, and to know their church aright through timely Truth, is what brings life eternal." – War
News Forecast, Tract No. 14, p. 38. (First parenthesis ours.)

We wish to share with you a recent letter to an Adventist leader:

"Dear Elder_______ :

"Special greetings in the precious new name of our Saviour and Redeemer, The Branch (Zech. 3:8;
6:12; Rev. 2:17; 3:12; Jer. 23:5,6; 33:15,16)!

"Praise God for the beautiful message of the Third Angel which shows so clearly that we are living
in the time of the end, even the latter days!

We are delighted with your editorial 'Changeless Truth in An Age of Change,' which appeared in the
Review September 1, 1977. We agree with you that 'Our only safety.... is to.... believe the Bible as
it reads. '

"Take for example, the beautiful prophecy of Isaiah 2. 'The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw
concerning Judah and Jerusalem. And it shall come to pass in the LAST DAYS...for out of Zion shall
go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.' Verses 1-3.

"Concerning the popular system of interpreting, or MISINTERPRETING the Scriptures, Wolff
wrote: 'The greater part of the Christian church have swerved from the plain sense of Scripture, and
have turned to the phantomizing system of the Buddhists, who believe...that when they are reading
Jews they must understand Gentiles; and when they read Jerusalem, they must understand the church
:.." – The Great Controversy, p. 360.

"Yes, thank God for the Third Angel's Message which teaches us that when we read Jerusalem, it
means Jerusalem, Israel, and when it says last days it is our time!

"It is our prayer that you are one of those who 'believe the Bible as it reads;' for, then, if you are, you
are preparing to give the Third Angel's Message from Jerusalem, and the law from Zion in the very
near future!

"We would appreciate hearing from you, dear brother!!

"May Jesus The Branch, Who is soon to be in the cloud by day, and the fire by night (Isaiah 4:5),
find in you a willing heart to help move General Conference to where He is to be!!

"Sincerely yours to move to Jerusalem and escape the mark of the beast."

Sincerely yours to pray that the brethren will move to Jerusalem,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

Enc.

December 30, 1977

Dear Sister_______ :

From day to day we are praising the Lord as we see prophecy being fulfilled in the events of the
Middle East in the efforts of Egypt, Israel, and the United States to bring about peace. How blessed
we are to have an understanding of God's Word regarding these efforts, their outcome, and what
effect they will have upon God's Sabbathkeeping people to whom the promise is made-"That which
God purposed to do for the world through Israel, the chosen nation, He will finally accomplish
through His church on earth to-day...These witnesses for God are numbered among spiritual Israel,
and to them will be fulfilled ALL the covenant promises ('Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan,
the lot of your inheritance.' Ps. 105:11) made by Jehovah to His ancient people." – Prophets & Kings,
pp. 714,715.

What a wonderful promise to the Remnant Church today! Can we not rejoice that the church is to
at long last receive back her civil crown that Zedekiah lost to Nebuchadnezzar?

The prophecy of Ezekiel 21:25-27 is about to be realized! Sister White says in Education, p. 179,
that "The crown removed from Israel passed successively to the Kingdoms of Babylon, Medo-Persia,
Greece, and Rome. God says, 'It shall be no more, until He come whose right it is; and I will give
it Him.'

"THAT TIME IS AT HAND."

"A chilling threat of all-out war triggered by Israel – confronting mankind with the present danger
of a nuclear holocaust, perhaps within months – dominated the secret discussions of the Trilateral
Conference in Bonn on October 22-23 and prompted Egypt's Anwar Sadat to go to Israel. The
conferees – among them some of the world's most astute and influential power brokers – were
shaken to learn that in recent weeks Israel's defense minister, Ezer Weizman, has told U.S. and
British leaders that if the current talks with Egypt and the Geneva Conference on the Mideast
planned for next year fail to produce a 'satisfactory settlement,' Israel intends to launch a 'lightning
war of annihilation' against her Arab neighbors.... The revelation of stunning military might (atomic)
acquired by Israel, coupled with Begin's bullying threats to launch a 'war of annihilation' ...have set
off anxious diplomatic scurrying among Western and Mideastern capitals....
American...troubleshooters...were sent to Cairo and Jerusalem to push, urge and entreat Egypt and
Israel toward an accommodation before war becomes inevitable." – Israel Threatens A-War Unless
Arabs Surrender, The Spotlight, November 28, 1977.

Sincerely yours to put away our idols,

<signed Ben L. Roden>

Ben L. Roden

BLR:pdj

enc.

Page 2

P.S. This statement in The Spotlight is not from Inspiration, but if true, it shows the determination
of the Jews to maintain their position in the land of our fathers. Those who believe in the restoration
of God's everlasting Righteous Kingdom should greatly appreciate the tremendous efforts Judah has
put forth in delivering God's Land from His enemies in preparation for the returning of the ten tribes,
also.

If you desire to know the Truth for this time listen to what God has caused His prophets to write in
His Word as instructions for His people in our time.

"Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King
shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah shall
be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD
OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS." Jer. 23:5,6.

"The word of the Lord came again unto me, saying, Moreover, thou son of man, take thee one stick,
and write upon it, For Judah, and for the children of Israel his companions: then take another stick,
and write upon it, For Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel his companions.
And join them one to another into one stick; and they shall become one in thine hand. And when the
children of thy people shall speak unto thee, saying, Wilt thou not shew us what thou meanest by
these? Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph, which is in
the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the
stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand. And the sticks whereon
thou writest shall be in thine hand before their eyes. And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God;
Behold, I will take the children of Israel from among the heathen, whither they be gone, and will
gather them on every side, and bring them into their own land: And I will make them one nation in
the land upon the mountains of Israel; and one king shall be king to them all: and they shall be no
more two nations, neither shall they be divided into two kingdoms any more at all: Neither shall they
defile themselves any more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their
transgressions: but I will save them out of all their dwellingplaces, wherein they have sinned, and
will cleanse them: so shall they be my people, and I will be their God. And David my servant shall
be king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and
observe my statutes, and do them. And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my
servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt; and they shall dwell therein, even they, and their children,
and their children's children for ever: and my servant David shall be their prince for ever. Moreover
I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them: and I will
place them, and multiply them, and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore. My
tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And the
heathen shall know that I the Lord do sanctify Israel, when my sanctuary shall be in the midst of
them for evermore." Eze. 37:15-28.

That time is at hand!

<signed Ben L. Roden>

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